Eric Russell Cobb

It is with incredible sadness we share the news that Eric Russell Cobb of Sanford Maine, formerly of Danvers Massachusetts, has passed away peacefully in his own home at the age of 68. Though we’ll choose to remember him for how he lived, his fight against his illness showed a level of strength and resiliency that amazed everyone around him. He is survived by many loved ones, but is most deeply bereaved by his only child Jamie, who cared for him lovingly until his final moments. Their relationship was very special- raising her as a single dad with the help of the world’s best village. He was generous and kind- the type of father people wish for. Everything he did was for her, and everyone in their lives could see it. He was and will always remain her own personal superhero. He was deeply proud of her four kids- Liv, Lexi, Wyatt, and Ellie- The memories made in his years of babysitting and early morning PBS & Snack parties (just like their mom enjoyed) will be forever cherished. He leaves behind a “baby sister” Judy, who he always was fiercely protective of. He was thrilled to be “Uncie Rick” to three girls, Rachael, Katie, and Colby- his protection translated quickly to them, and he was always the first to check their tires or call after a bad storm. Katie put it best- he was quiet with his love but he was always there. Also known as “Ricky” to a very select few, we are most comforted to know the loved ones who’ve gone before him are with him again, especially his adoring parents Isie and Wil. Growing up he enjoyed Scouting with his Dad, and he was very devoted to his Mom- in fact, his one and only moment of physical violence in an otherwise gentle life was the time he punched a classmate for calling her an old lady. He’s also preceded in death by his favorite people- his grandparents- in particular Meme and Papa who instilled in him his love for Maine where he enjoyed spending summers sleeping on their porch, teasing his favorite cousins, and playing cards. Eric was an absolutely brilliant but humble man- he started by building cars as a teenager and eventually translated those skills to a career as a nuclear physicist (“it’s just a fancy way of saying engineer”), inventing surgical equipment, earning many patents and more accolades that he never celebrated. Eric enjoyed the simple things in life- eating Gege’s cold apple pie, sitting on his deck watching the birds at his neighbor’s feeders, taking summer rides in his beloved supercharged Audi, listening to music on a good sound system, and reading spy thrillers. He loved nothing more in the world than watching his grandchildren exasperate their mother. Some of Wyatt’s favorite memories are of his Papa saying “nice one buddy” whenever he was up to some little boy antics. Papa was always the first one to encourage him. Ellie remembers his “hello miss Ellie!” and how he always called her dear . He truly lit up when they’d come into the room, and we are so grateful they all got to do more of that in his last month. At Eric’s wishes, there will be no formal services. If you know his personality, this makes sense. Crowds, talking about himself, and displays of emotion are not his favorite things. Please reach out to Jamie directly if you’d like to do something he enjoyed in his honor together. Sympathy cards (especially for Wyatt and Ellie) are welcomed at PO Box 1504 43 Route 236 Berwick Maine 03901 (does not accept flowers) Feel free to share special memories below.